The actor is backing a campaign to boycott a new branch close to his home in Bloomsbury, central London.

It will be the first major chain to open on Lamb's Conduit Street, which is famed for its small, independent shops.

Everett, 47, said: "Starbucks is spreading like a cancer.

"Nobody in the neighbourhood wants it, including me.

"There are plenty of diners and coffee shops there already."

Petition

Everett, who starred in An Ideal Husband and My Best Friend's Wedding, has joined with 1,000 other residents and traders to sign a petition expressing "deep concern" about plans for the new Starbucks.

The petition claims that the store's opening next month will herald the end of the long tradition of independent shops in the street.

Ash Ranpura, who lives in the street and helped organise the campaign, said: "Lamb's Conduit Street is a rarity in central London, having a genuine village atmosphere where locals know each other, stop and talk and rally round when their community is under threat.

"It is one of the jewels in Camden's crown and has been quietly transforming itself into one of the most charming, unique and interesting shopping streets in London.

"The loss of such a thriving street to global chains would be a great loss for the capital."

Representatives for Rugby Estate, the street's landlord, defended the decision to allow Starbucks to open, describing it as a "highly reputable company."

Starbucks said the store would provide more than 10 jobs.

The company said it looked forward to a good relationship with residents and "contributing to the community."